IABP
Pronunciation: eye-A-B-P
Also written as: IABP — intra-aortic balloon pump
Intra-aortic balloon pump, a mechanical circulatory support device that augments coronary perfusion and reduces cardiac workload.
Full Definition
The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a temporary mechanical circulatory support device consisting of a balloon catheter placed in the descending aorta. The balloon inflates during diastole to augment coronary and systemic perfusion, and deflates during systole to reduce cardiac afterload and oxygen demand. IABP is commonly used in cardiothoracic surgery for patients with cardiogenic shock, unstable angina, or as a bridge to more definitive therapy. Contraindications include severe aortic regurgitation and aortic dissection. Proper timing of balloon inflation and deflation is crucial for optimal hemodynamic benefit.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize; spell out on first use in formal documents.
In Context
- "Preoperative IABP placement was necessary to stabilize the patient's hemodynamics before surgery." — Preoperative assessment